Bousman7’s BodyBlog

Strength is a funny thing some times, at times is like a roller coaster ride. Today I was able to do my personal best on EZ Bar skull crushers. This is my first exercise in my tricep arsenal, I love the feeling of barely lifting extreme poundages just above my forehead. Ya so Im a little twisted. I saw in a flex magazine a few months back that one of the pro’s was using EZ curl bar with two 35’s on each side (165 lbs). That inspired me as I was doing a 35 and 2 tens on each side (135), I knew it was humanly possible cause I saw it in a picture right. Well I have been working up to it and finally pushed the pair of 35’s on each side for 6 reps. Once I get at least 6 reps I do another set with more weight to get at least 2 reps so I can increase poundages. So I got a wild hair and added a 5 on each end making it 175 lbs and got 2, but I knew I did not have the best set. For some odd reason I am not smarter than a fifth grader (oh wait that was Kelly Pickler’s line, wasnt she cute on there) but anyhow I decided to put a 10 on instead of the 5’s so now I had 2-35’s and a 10 on each side (185 lbs) and I got two solid reps. I was so happy, that I could hardly contain myself inside. The only problem is the weight at 175 was pulling my feet up since the weight distribution was off, so I put two dumbells on the floor and stuck my toes under them. I think it is so amazing that God created such a body that when put under pressure it gets stronger. You know I can still remember coming back to the gym after almost 20 years away (FEB 06) and doing that exercise with a single 25 on each side.

 I am so blessed to have the strength I have today and with that comes the size that I have grown to. I do not consider myself big by any means, I am just an average guy who doesn’t let pain and feelings keep me from becoming the man and body that God has planned for me. I love being in the gym and getting ready to do a heavy set of whatever and most guys are snortting and groaning with this weight and I am simply praying to my savior "Lord make this set for your glory". I have never had a bad set because it always glorifies him, and he is worthy. Thanks to God for his Mercy and Grace. God Bless. Brian

I am about 36 hours away from my 2nd comp after 21 years away from the stage. I am so belssed to have such a great family. I am blessed to be able to make a positive influence for Christ on my boys soccer team, and to have the health that I have to compete as a bodybuilder. The shows I have done are not tested, but in 2008 I will be doing natural shows for God’s glory. I pray for all of my friends and fellow fitness enthusiests that are hurting so that one day soon, God will bless them beyond their wildest dreams. That they will find comfort in knowing him personally. Until then, I will continue to spread his word to all who can hear it. God Bless. Brian

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33, NLT

I have recently been inspired to look at making some changes. I have been helping out at my sons 7th grade Presidential Fitness Challenge, where the kids test themselves in situps, pushups, sit and reach, shuttle run, and so on. I noticed many of the children would hide their scorecards from everyone except their closest friends as they were embarrassed. Then my heart was broken when an average looking young girl was speaking to a mother helping out as well, she was asking her why she could not do a single pushup. Looking at the young lady, you would think she would have been able to do a few. The adult gave her some pretty sound tips to building up to a full pushup, but it made me think. How many other kids out there do not know how to better themselves and are too embarrassed to ask.

A few days after that I came across a young lady on this site, she appeared to be a normal young lady, but again my heart broke as she spoke of herself as looking pregnant and referred to herself as a popular whale. After reading this my eyes began to leak. This young lady inspired me to began thinking about what I could do to change the way these young ladies felt about themselves. As a youth coach for Softball, soccer, basketball for the past 10 years I had been able to make a positive influence in many lives. But that was not enough for me. There has to be way to reach those that dont get involved in sports.

I thought about it for two days then I discussed it with my wife for assistance. I wanted to create a fitness camp that is little to no cost to the kids, that gave them the basics on how to change their bodies and gain self esteem and giving them hope to a better future. My wife has agreed to help and we will involve our three children who also assist me in coaching now. As I dig into making this dream a reality I would love to find someone else that already has done this so I can get this thing rolling. I will take any advice or tips as I get the ball in motion.

I would certainly like to thank the young ladies who touched my heart deeper than they will ever know. I would also like to thank God for the grace and love that enabled my heart to be open to these young ladies. I will forever be greatfull that these young ladies reached out as they did. God bless You.